Conwell emphasized that a DSLR camera isn’t necessary to achieve strong results. “I use my iPhone 99% of the time. It compensates for low light, has a wide zoom range, and often produces better images than a DSLR unless you're a skilled photographer,” said Conwell.

But just owning a good phone isn’t enough. Knowing how to use it matters. “You’d be surprised how many people think their latest iPhone guarantees a great photo. It doesn’t. You still need to know how to frame, light, and angle your shot properly,” said Conwell.

The process begins with intentional planning. Contractors should think about how the photo will be viewed and choose an orientation accordingly. “If the picture will mostly be seen on a website or in a brochure, a horizontal shot makes more sense,” said Conwell. "But if it’s for social media or a quick phone preview, vertical is fine."

Once orientation is determined, composition becomes key. “Tile should be the star of your photo,” said Conwell. “You don’t need the ceiling unless it’s part of the installation. Frame the image so the viewer’s eye goes straight to the craftsmanship.”

Angles also play a crucial role. “To keep vertical lines straight, hold your phone at a 90-degree angle to the floor. A slight tilt up or down can distort your image,” said Conwell. “Sometimes you may have to crouch or change your position, but the payoff is a cleaner, more professional-looking photo.”

Cleanliness is another critical factor. “I’ve seen great installs ruined in photos because there’s a tool bag in the background,” said Conwell. “Take the photo when the job is clean. It’s the finishing touch to your work.”

Post-production doesn’t have to be intimidating, either. “I recommend overshooting. Take more pictures than you need,” said Conwell. “Then use basic edits like cropping and exposure adjustment. Most phones have an 'enhance' button, which can make a big difference. Just be careful not to overdo it.”

Color adjustments can be tricky, especially when trying to stay true to product shades. “If a cream-colored tile ends up looking yellow in your photo, that might misrepresent the product,” said Conwell. “But ultimately, the photo needs to be visually appealing. If making the tile pop helps sell your work, I’m not against it.”

Beyond aesthetics, photography can offer practical benefits as well. “Including something for scale, like a person, a window, or a door, helps the viewer understand the size of the tile and the space,” said Conwell. “It makes your installation more relatable.”

Lighting can also make or break a photo. “Whenever possible, position the light source behind you,” said Conwell. “If you're shooting into a window, your camera might focus on the brightness and not the tile itself. Natural light behind you makes your subject pop.”

For tile contractors and fabricators, the message is clear: photographs are part of the work. “The job isn’t finished until it’s documented,” said Conwell. “A good photo preserves your craftsmanship and helps build your reputation long after the grout has dried.”